Pictured above is a Killer Brownie, invented by and trademarked by the West Point Market in Akron Ohio. The bakers at the West Side market will be sending a supply of these devastating delights to New Orleans as part of the Friday night menu of the kick-off party, titled America's Hometown Sweets. [READ MORE]

The Best Sweets From All Over America

Yes, that's right: chocolatiers, pie bakers, and pudding makers are all contributing their particular specialty to the Friday night party, which is going to be a sweet-lover's dream ... and an absolutely unprecedented opportunity to taste so many local specialties and unique treats from all over the country in one place. That's a Humphrey popcorn ball pictured above. There will be plenty of those for all participants to sample. So if you haven't done so, please get your Friday night ticket now, right here. [READ MORE]

Try Some Pie!

When will any of us have another chance to sample, side by side, apple pie from the Julian Pie Company in California and apple pie baked in a paper bag from the Elegant Farmer in Wisconsin? (Not to mention Key lime pie from Key West and Whoopie Pie from Maine?) This is a once-in-a-lifetime dessert-lover's binge. [READ MORE]

Chocolate, Anyone?

Of course, Hallie Baker of Turtle Alley (who will have a booth at the festival Saturday and Sunday) will be bringing some of her extra-special treats to the Friday night party.